Chicago Botanic Garden

At The Garden — Employment

Employment at the Chicago Botanic Garden

TITLE: Shoreline Maintenance


The Shoreline Maintenance seasonal staff are responsible for maintaining aesthetic shoreline conditions by removing nuisance plant and algae growth, as well as litter and other debris from the Garden's lake system. The daily routine includes wearing waders (provided by the Garden) and accessing the shoreline via rowboats and/or walking along the shoreline edge.

PURPOSE: Strengthen the Chicago Botanic Garden's aquatic plant and urban lake studies program by maintaining aesthetic shoreline conditions and quality lakeshore habitat.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Maintain aesthetic shoreline conditions by removing nuisance plant and algae growth, as well as litter, debris, and occasional nuisance fish/wildlife from the Garden's lake system. Daily routine includes wearing waders (provided by the Garden) and accessing the shoreline via rowboats and/or walking along the shoreline edge.  Gasoline-powered weed trimmers are occasionally used.

Seasonal Position (April/May through August/September)

DEPARTMENT: Aquatics – Restoration Ecology

REPORTS TO:  Curator of Aquatics/Director of Restoration Ecology

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:  Applicants must have a high comfort level being in and around water, and an ability to swim should the need arise in an emergency. Also, applicant must be able to operate rowboats and electric trolling motors, and lift and carry 35 pounds. Experience in the operation and maintenance of small engines (weed trimmers) is desirable.